The National Farmers’ Union is bringing the best of British farming to political party conferences this year…and even putting politicians in the driving seat at its fringe events in Liverpool and Birmingham.

Fringe events are being jointly held with the Food and Drink Federation at all party conferences and started this week at the Liberal Democrats’ conference in Brighton. The events will debate what the future UK food policy should look like.

After the NFU’s first award-winning exhibition stand at the Conservative party conference last year, it will be hosting an additional exhibition at the Labour party conference.

Visitors to the stand will be able to sample the best of British produce and celebrate the vital role farming plays in producing safe, traceable and affordable food for Britain.

The importance of food and farming to the country will be highlighted to those visiting the stand.

Delegates will have the opportunity to pledge their support to British farming and will also be able to experience the harvest in a virtual reality experience in a Massey Ferguson tractor.

NFU president Minette Batters said: “This is a vital time for British food and farming and it is clear there is significant parliamentary backing for our sector at this crucial time, particularly as the Agriculture Bill begins its passage through Parliament.

“Just last week we saw over 140 MPs support Back British Farming day and it was great to see the entire Shadow Cabinet show their commitment to the sector.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our vibrant industry to thousands and I am proud to take the best of British to the party conferences.”